As a multifunction harbour, the Port of Walvis Bay can offer a range of
specialised berthing facilities and every kind of support facility. An important
new addition is the purpose-built container terminal, covering 3.2 hectares.
Location
GPS Coordinates S22°5608 E014°2907
Pilotage
The port is a compulsory pilotage area. Requests for pilots need to be directed to the Port Captain prior to arrival.
Lighthouse
The Pelican Point lighthouse is fully automated.
Port Control Service
Port Control directs all shipping movements within port limits. It keeps a 24-hour VHF radio watch on
channel 16, and works on channel 12 and 14. A Vessel Traffic Control System was implemented in 2004.
Divers
Professional diving services are available on request through the Port Captain.
Marine Services Hours
Working hours Mondays to Fridays 06h0022h00 Saturdays 06h0012h00, Sundays and public holidays 08h0012h00 and 13h0017h00.
Overtime is available on request.
Bunkering
Fuel is provided via pipeline at Berths 15, and by road transport for other berths. Bunker fuel transfers in the inner anchorage are
subject to prior approval by the Marine Division of the Department of Transport and the Port Captain, and are monitored.
Waste
Only garbage disposal is available.
Engineering Services
These include planning and coordinating maintenance and development projects for the port.
Medical Facilities
On-site clinics and a state hospital the latter also offering dental facilities are available in Walvis Bay. Special cases can be treated in Windhoek, which is 400km inland.
Entrance Channel
Length 6,200m, width 134m, depth 12.8m CD
Anchorage
Ships anchor within port limits, and are protected by the bay.
Weather
No weather delays.
Crafts / Towage
Tug assistance is normally required. The port has two firefighting tractor tugs of 31t and 27t bollard pull. There are
also two first-class Azimuth-propelled tractor tugs, with bollard pulls of 28t and 23t, respectively. The port boasts
two first-class Azimuthpropelled pusher tugs of 12t and 10t bollard pull, respectively. These vessels are
Schottel-propelled for maximum manoeuvrability. One passenger launch is used, and is certified to carry 30 passengers.
There is also a grab dredger/anchor-handling barge with an 80m3 self-propelled hopper.
Cargo Handling Hours
Working hours Mondays to Fridays 07h0012h00 and 13h0017h00 Sundays and public holidays 08h0012h00 and 13h0017h00. Overtime is available on request.
Water
Fresh water can be supplied at any quay at a rate of 15t an hour (maximum of four hoses per vessel).Water can also be supplied by
tug, but this requires the Port Captains prior approval. Walvis Bay experiences water shortages from time to time, and limitations on
water supply may be imposed.
Harbour Response
Fire brigade services are available on a 24-hour basis. Access to the harbour is controlled with 24 hour security.
Technical Services
Workshops are available for mechanical, civil, marine, electrical, vehicle and communication equipment repairs.
Equipment
Reach stackers, forklifts, tractors, haulers, trailers, a harbour tower crane, additional equipment including mobile cranes and haulage
transport, are available from Namport and through local agents.
Port Details / Facilities
